Brett Arenz

Brett Arenz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota, where he serves as Director of the Plant Disease Clinic. His work focuses on plant disease diagnostics, biosecurity surveillance via the National Plant Diagnostic Network, and teaching undergraduate/graduate courses including PLPA 2003 (Plague, Famine and Beer), CFAN 2333 (Insects, Microbes and Plants), and advanced fungal biology courses.

Research interests include

• plant-microbe interactions
• fungal ecology
• soil microbiology
• agricultural biosecurity
• diagnostic plant pathology
• molecular detection methods

The 15 most recent publications (2015-2025) highlight his expertise in plant disease emergence, fungal pathogenesis in crops (e.g., corn tar spot caused by Phyllachora maydis), Antarctic microbial ecology, and innovative molecular diagnostic tools. Key subfields span fungal taxonomy, phytoplasma infections, PCR-free DNA detection, and soilborne pathogen dynamics.

Projects led by Arenz include

• National Plant Diagnostic Network initiatives
• microscopy resource enhancement for plant science teaching
• Diplodia infection surveillance in red pine seedlings
• biosecurity grants from USDA NIFA and MN DNR

His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through agricultural protection and polar microbiology studies.